You’re looking for a new WiFi Router and have a couple of options on the table but aren’t sure which one to go with. Whether you’re replacing an existing router or purchasing a new one, you’ll want to know all there is to know about them before you decide. We’ll take a look at the features of both routers to help you decide.
NETGEAR Nighthawk AC2600 Smart WiFi Router (R7450)
The NETGEAR Nighthawk AC2600 is a dual-band processor that takes up less than a square-foot of space and weighs just over a pound and a half. It has five Gigabit Ethernet ports and one 3.0 USB port. It boasts double firewall protection (SPI and NAT) and a 128MB flash memory.
This router is best for streaming or gaming, with up to 2.6Gbps and multi-user MIMO technology for uninterrupted, simultaneous streaming. Its advanced Quality of Service (QoS) downstream and upstream automatically recognizes and prioritizes applications for lag-free gaming. With high-powered amplifiers with three external antennas, the AC2600 offers expanded range throughout very large homes, and dual-band WiFi allows for better connection and simultaneous streaming to multiple devices.
NETGEAR makes it easy to wirelessly access and share your personal photos and music with ReadySHARE USB Access. Not only does Nighthawk offer a user-friendly app for iPads, tables, smartphones, and computers to set up your router, it also allows you to access and manage your network while away from your home or office.
If your security is important to you, this router provides secure access to your home network and a separate and secure network for your guests to use as well as a customized, free URL to create FTP server.
More features for the Nighthawk AC2600 Smart WiFi Router
- 90 Day complimentary technical support following purchase
- WiFi Signal focus
- Automatic signal management
- Implicit & Explicit Beamforming boosts speed, reliability & range for both 2.4 & 5GHz WiFi—An industry first
- Dual-core processor boosts wireless, wired & WAN-to-LAN performance
NETGEAR Nighthawk AX3000 4-Stream Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Router – RAX35-100NAS
Right off the bat, you’ll notice this product takes up more space than the AC2600 at almost 2 inches larger all the way around, though it does weigh approximately a quarter of a pound less than the AC2600. There are several key differences between the AX3000 and AC2600, though.
First, while the AC2600 detailed above clocks in at about 2.6Gbps, the AX3000 is triple-core processor capable of around 3Gbps, though wireless coverage will vary and may be lowered by network and environmental conditions. Another key difference is that the AX3000 has two external antennas that extend strong and reliable signals over small to medium sized homes, unlike the AC2600 which can be used in larger homes. The AX3000 has an automatic firmware update that delivers the latest security patches directly to the router and 4 Gigabit Ethernet LAN Ports that connect more wired devices for faster file transfer and uninterrupted connections. The AX3000 also comes with NETGEAR Armor, an advanced cyber threat protection that scans and identifies network security flaws and keeps you safe from phishing and online fraud.
On the other hand, both routers allow for secure network access, even if you’re away from home, and they both offer a separate network for guests. Both are also equally able to provide the speeds with which to allow for uninterrupted gaming, streaming, or video conferencing. Nighthawk offers the mobile APP for both devices for easily managing your network away from home.
More features for the NighthawkAX4/4-Stream AX3000 WiFi 6 Router
- 160MHZ Channel Support
- —1.5GHz triple-core processor ensures smooth 4K UHD streaming
- Reduce interference from neighboring networks
- Control your NETGEAR WiFi network with simple voice commands using Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant
- —Advanced cyberthreat protection for your home network and your connected devices
Recommendation
Both routers are great options if you’re looking for a fast, reliable network for your daily needs. It’s best to look into the details that each offers to find the best match for you.
The AX3000 seems to be best for small to medium sized homes and is an especially great option if your cyber security is most important to you as it specifically offers cyber threat protection. The AC2600, on the other hand, looks like the best match for a workaholic, gaming family-oriented person as it offers great connection services for multiple devices throughout larger homes.